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Larry Neal Writers' Awards

The DC Commission on the Arts and Humanities (DCCAH) will announce the winners of the 32nd Annual Larry Neal Writers' Competition on Wednesday, May 27, 2015, at the Kogod Cradle at Arena Stage.

"Writers of all ages and experiences have an opportunity to be recognized for their artistic excellence by the District," said Edmund C. Fleet, Chair of the DC Commission on the Arts and Humanities. "The Commission is dedicated to providing this intergenerational program in support of our rich and diverse writers."

"The creativity and dedication of DC's writing community never ceases to amaze me," said Lionell Thomas, Executive Director of the DC Commission on the Arts and Humanities. "Each year, the Larry Neal Writing Competition recognizes talented adult, teen and youth writers and celebrates their achievements."

The Larry Neal Writing Competition is open to emerging and professional writers of all ages who reside in the District of Columbia. Cash prizes are awarded to adults (aged 19 and above), teens (ages 13-18), and youth (8-12) for artistic excellence in unpublished poetry, short stories, or dramatic writing.

Submission Guidelines

The DC Commission on the Arts and Humanities will accept Larry Neal Writing Competition applications through Friday, April 17, 2015 at 4:00 PM.

All submissions must be uploaded through the Good Done Great database system. Click here to sign up/log in to submit your application. Late or hand-delivered applications will not be accepted. A high volume of applications is expected, so please plan accordingly.

DCCAH staff members are available to provide technical assistance upon request.

DCCAH will notify all applicants of their status in mid-May by the email address provided on the applicant's entry form.

Please note: Applicants may apply in one category only. All applications must strictly adhere to the posted guidelines and criteria. Failure to follow submission guidelines and application instructions may result in automatic disqualification.

About this program:

The Larry Neal Writers’ Competition commemorates the artistic legacy and vision of Larry Neal, the renowned author, academic and former Executive Director of the DC Commission on the Arts and Humanities (DCCAH). This year, monetary awards will be presented for the artistic excellence of adult, teen and youth writers residing in the District of Columbia.

Contact Information:

For more information on the Larry Neal Writers’ Competition and awards ceremony, contact David Markey, Arts Education Coordinator, at David.Markey@dc.gov or 202-724-5613.